01/07/2025
Shining the Light: DJ Network and Crown One Discuss Faith, Music, and Purpose
In an exclusive interview with DJ Network, Gospel recording artist and producer Crown One opens up about his journey, faith, and the mission behind his music. From his roots in Akron, Ohio, to his upcoming album The Crossover, Crown One shares his insights on the impact of Gospel hip-hop, the challenges he has faced, and the inspiration driving his artistry.
Dive into the conversation as Crown One’s passion for ministry and music takes center stage.
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DJ Network: What is the Gospel music scene like in Akron, Ohio, and how has it influenced your journey as an artist and producer?
Crown One: “Akron’s Gospel scene is rooted in traditional sounds but rich with innovation — from vocalists like Jaron LeGrair to artists and producers like Allen Swoope. Growing up here taught me the difference between talent and anointing. Though Christian Hip-Hop wasn’t always embraced in church circles, my journey shaped a sound that’s unapologetically Gospel but undeniably hip-hop. Through K.P. Music Records, we’ve committed to staying and investing in the city’s future — not fleeing it.”
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DJ Network: As a Christian rapper and producer, how do you see your music impacting both believers and non-believers in your community and beyond?
Crown One: “From local fans like Da Cat — a blind supporter who never misses a show — to believers in Germany and the Philippines, I’ve seen how God uses music to reach across borders and hearts. Some have walked with Christ for years; others encountered Him for the first time through a verse or beat. That’s why I create: to be a vessel of hope and transformation.”
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DJ Network: How does your faith shape your creative process when writing, producing, or performing music?
Crown One: “My faith is the foundation of everything I create. Whether writing lyrics or scoring for film, I approach every project by submitting to the Holy Spirit and aligning with His Word. I’m intentional about the atmosphere my work sets. On stage, I aim to uplift, upgrade, and educate — showing that biblical faith in 2025 can be bold, expressive, and uncompromising.”
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DJ Network: What challenges have you faced as a Gospel artist in the hip-hop industry, and how has your faith helped you overcome them?
Crown One: “One of my biggest challenges has been being overlooked — not for lack of skill, but because CHH is still misunderstood in some church circles. Some leaders hesitate to embrace the genre. I’ve learned that real impact isn’t just about a mic — it’s about your walk. Over time, God opened doors no man could shut, simply because I stayed faithful and focused.”
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DJ Network: What message do you hope listeners take away from your music, and how does that align with your mission as a servant of Christ?
Crown One: “My music is a reminder that Heaven sees you. Every song is a soundtrack to the believer’s journey — where we’ve been, where we are, and where God’s calling us. I want people to know: God loves them deeply, pursues the one, and offers peace that doesn’t make sense to the world. Through Christ, there’s freedom, restoration, and eternal purpose.”
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DJ Network: What is your next single, and what is the name of your upcoming project? When do you plan to release it?
Crown One: *“My next single is ‘I’m the Light,’ an anthem declaring the presence of God’s light in dark places. Inspired by Matthew 5:14, the track radiates with raw energy and reflects my mission to represent the Kingdom everywhere I go — on the job, in the streets, or in the dark. It’s more than a song; it’s a statement.
‘I’m the Light’ sets the tone for my upcoming album, The Crossover, dropping July 17 on the music streaming platform EVEN and August 1 worldwide. The project blends spiritual growth, lyrical fire, and authenticity, marking a defining moment not just musically, but spiritually. Early supporters will get exclusive content on EVEN.”*
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Stay tuned for the release of The Crossover as Crown One continues to shine God’s light, creating a transformative soundtrack for believers and beyond.
